Meet Our Counselors & Therapists
Stephanie Phillips, LCMHCS, NCC, CCTP
Owner
I would describe my style as supportive and empowering, gentle while confronting or challenging, and periodically incorporating humor. My philosophy on the client/therapist relationship is that it is a partnership in which both parties are open and honest. As a therapist, it is my job to help guide the process. However, success occurs when clients are motivated in and out of session to make wanted changes.
Funmi Ajani, LCMHCA
True, genuine, and lasting change cannot occur without being vulnerable. Vulnerability can be daunting; especially when sharing personal, uncomfortable, and deep issues with another person. As your therapist, my non-judgmental, empathic, and supportive role helps create a safe atmosphere. Being vulnerable in the context of a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship, while building skills will increase your ability to expand resources needed to effectively deal with problems, difficulties, and challenges life may present to you.
Greg Linares, LMFT
I believe anyone, regardless of background or circumstance, can benefit from talk therapy. We all have “stuff” that can get in our way and therapy has been shown to help us cope and find solutions. Whether you have been to therapy many times or you are considering it for the first time, my aim is to work with you collaboratively to facilitate a space for honest exploration and growth. My philosophy is that you are the expert when it comes to your life, thoughts, and feelings. My job is to foster a space for openness and honesty when addressing difficulties that might be getting in your way. I will walk with you as a source of support and insight through your challenges and help you reach your goals.
Todd Lindsey, LCMHC
I believe counseling cannot be successful without honesty, openness to change, dedication, hard work, and strength. People come to counseling for many reasons, but most people seek counseling because they want a “change” in their life. Please keep in mind that this “change” may, at times, be challenging, difficult, and possibly painful. However, the goal should always be to bring about some positive change within you. Therapy should provide a safe place to explore behaviors, thoughts, and feelings about yourself and others in your life and allow you the opportunity to practice new ways of thinking and/or interacting in a safe environment before utilizing these skills in the “real world.”
Brigitte ZylaRoch, LCSWA
Life does not come with an instruction manual (I know, it’s the worst!). But that doesn’t mean you have to give up hope. Sometimes a safe space and a listening ear is all you need to create your own manual. You are unique and so are your challenges. I am here to provide a warm, compassionate, playful, non-judgmental, safe space and empower you to join me in working through those challenges. I believe that therapy should be all-embracing, genuine and rooted in the therapeutic relationship. We were not meant to walk through life alone. So come and join me. No one belongs here more than you.
Anna Broadwell, LCMHC
I believe a trusting and solid relationship between therapist and client is the most important and foundational element of the counseling relationship. Developing rapport and providing supportive, safe, empathetic, and non-judgmental counseling environments are essential elements in building relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your life, and I provide an encouraging and positive voice for you on your journey of healing and self-discovery. Through a collaborative and person-centered approach, I encourage self-exploration and understanding as you share your stories. I consider it an honor to be invited to work with you on your journey.
Barbara Garrett, LCSW
I offer insightful, supportive, and interactive therapy blended with resourceful, practical suggestions that can help you heal life’s hurts, like yourself more, adjust to life’s transitions, and develop improved communication skills and relationships. Many people think that they should be able to solve their problems by themselves, but doing it yourself does not mean doing it alone. It means bringing in the resources that will assist you. You can create a better life – first decide to, and then bring in the resources you need to do so. I invite you to let me be your resource, and assist you in improving your relationships and life.
John von der Lehr, LCSW
I view the therapy experience as a “directed partnership” where strategies are used to directly impact the areas of your life that are in need of improvement. I don’t believe that “this is just the way it is” or “things can’t get better” or any of these other beliefs that hold people back from being happy and fulfilled in their lives. Whether it is depression, self-esteem issues, anxiety, problems in marriages, work situations, etc. or if you are looking for help with several small things in your life right now or if you are in a dark and difficult place, therapy can make a dramatic difference. Incorporating new or different understanding and with continual application of proven strategies, your emotions, thoughts and very life can be better and more enriching than you might even realize.
Connie Lancaster, LCMHC
We all experience ups and downs in life and I strongly believe that seeking help during the difficult times is a sign of great strength, not weakness, as it is a first step toward change. As a therapist, I view counseling as a collaborative process in which the client’s input and insight is just as valuable as mine. I strive to provide a safe and nurturing environment in which clients can be heard, supported, and empowered to transform their lives through exploration of thoughts and beliefs, behavioral patterns, and experiences that tend to hold them back. Through active participation in psychotherapy, clients can build on their inner strengths and develop the skills necessary to achieve the change and growth desired.
Samantha Wathen, LCMHC
I believe that therapy is a place where you can build on your strengths, hone new skills, and explore your authentic self without judgement. I work to view my clients through the multi-facets of their lived experience and provide the external “nudge” that allows them to deepen insight and encourage personal growth. Using evidenced-based, non-judgmental practices, my goal is to collaborate with you on your journey of self-reflection and acceptance. Together we can pack your toolkit with usable skills so you feel confident to go forward and create positive change in your life.
Shamieka Spencer, LCSWA, LCASA
Starting therapy can be intimidating; but healing, change, and clarity are all possible. I believe that therapy offers the opportunity for you to process your journey through life’s challenges and create a coping skills toolbox to use when difficult issues arise. I use a client-centered approach as it can allow us to understand your individual challenges. I have a special interest in working with clients struggling with negative thought patterns, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, control issues, addictions, loneliness, finding purpose, and adjustment issues. As your counselor, I will provide a safe and a non-judgmental space where I work collaboratively with you on your personalized goals. I am looking forward to working with you to help you not only cope, but to thrive.
Stephanie Lucas, LCSWA
I enjoy working with individuals and families to overcome barriers in communication, solve problems, and become more self-aware; with the overall goal of improving mental and physical well-being. I use a compassionate, accepting, and mindful approach to create a safe place where self-discovery and healing are possible. Working together will include goal setting and an exploration of the resources and tools available to help in meeting short and long term goals.
Madison Reese, LCMHCA
I believe in the power of a supportive environment where you can build your strengths, grow, heal, and explore barriers to change. I strive to create a space where you feel comfortable to explore your deepest feelings, deconstruct destructive ways of thinking, and transform the way that you cope. Healing is achievable for everyone. My goal is to collaborate with you and provide a non-judgmental, supportive space to help you achieve your personal goals. Together we can work to transform the way you cope so that you feel confident in confronting the challenges in your life.
Nikki Atkins, LCSWA
For generations, mental health has been associated with fear and misunderstanding. I am dedicated to pushing through those barriers, by providing you a safe, non-judgmental space for processing life experiences. Utilizing a collaborative and strength-based approach, we will work together to build your toolbox of healthy, and individualized strategies that will empower you to be your very best self. You have already taken the most difficult step by being courageous enough to seek help. Let’s get started; let’s talk about it.
Cris Fuller, LCMHCA
Life is a challenge! I believe everyone experiences the world through their unique lens, and no one counseling technique will work with everyone. Sometimes all we need is for someone to see, hear, and accept us. Sometimes we need strategies, techniques, and a little nudge to try something different. I hope to provide a non-judgmental, safe space to navigate life’s challenges and accompany you on your journey to find the life you will love.
The Mindly Group Reaches
Clayton NCRaleigh NCCary NCDurham NC